"We know from genetic research that all people alive today are descendants of the core population of less than a thousand individuals who lived in Africa between 150 000 and 200 000 years ago – and what we've found here shows that at least a portion of this population lived in the area around Mossel Bay."

These are the words of Dr Peter Nilssen, one of two scientists (the other was Jonathan Kaplan) who carried out a routine survey for an environmental impact study on land that was about to be developed into the Pinnacle Point Beach and Golf Resort, in Mossel Bay, only to find evidence that astounded not only the scientists of the world, but the general public as well.

It is understandable then that since the discovery that Homo sapiens arose in Africa between 200 and 100 thousand years ago in the Pinnacle Point Caves there has been increasing interest in this part of Mossel Bay's coastline.

The caves remain part of ongoing international studies under Professor Curtis Marean from Arizona State University, with over 40 scientists from all over the world involved in the process.

Despite its being 17 years ago the excitement of the discovery in amongst the orange rocks of Pinnacle Point has lost none of its drama, and Dr Peter Nilssen, who provides a presentation at the start of the experience, is as inspired today.

The Human Origins Experience is a tour that explores these beginnings of modern human behaviour, making it available to anyone who wants to know more. It includes:

Please Note

Business details can change. All information is published in good faith as supplied by the providers. Please check with the provider that the activity/business is still offered as described above, before making any travel plans.